Gujarat's industrial status and characteristics: With special reference to defeminization in the labor market

Abstract

In general, the state has become richer, the people returning to work has increased, and more women have joined the labor force. However, even though Gujarat has achieved great economic development during a typical industrial structural transformation, a very small percentage of women participate in economic activities. This study aims to characterize Gujarat's low engagement of female labor force in the process of Gujarat's industrial development. First, this study has captured that Gujarat's labor market structure and industrial structure has grown asymmetrically. It has failed to bring surplus female labor out of agriculture and into manufacturing or services. Second, capital intensity is rising in Gujarat's industries, amplifying male-biased employment. Finally, low formal employment in rural areas possibly discourages participation in economic activities by surplus female labor whose education level has consistently increased.